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University of Puget Sound

Tacoma, Washington · Private (nonprofit)

Ranked #95 US News

FindU Grade

B-Value
N/ACampus
A-Academics
CAdmissions
A-Student Life
B+Overall

About

University of Puget Sound is located in Tacoma, Washington. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 1,631 students.

pugetsound.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$59,900
Out-of-state tuition$59,900
Room & board$15,040
Avg aid package$32,482
Students receiving aid17%
Pell grant recipients17%

The University of Puget Sound offers merit scholarships up to $33,000, and the average financial aid package is around $32,482. While tuition costs can be significant, the university aims to provide accessible education through various financial aid options. The university is committed to helping students manage the cost of their education through scholarships and financial aid.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%1185–1390
4001600
ACT · middle 50%27–31
136

Application info

Acceptance rate76%
Average GPA3.50
Student–faculty ratio10:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$65

Puget Sound seeks students who are engaged citizens, problem solvers, and entrepreneurs, emphasizing a holistic review process. While SAT/ACT scores are considered but not required, the university looks for students with a strong academic record and a commitment to learning. The university offers Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision options to accommodate different applicant preferences.

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Academics

Graduation rate72%
Retention rate80%
Student–faculty ratio10:1
Full-time faculty75%

Puget Sound offers a rigorous liberal arts education with over 50 areas of study, fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. The university prides itself on a low 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio and small class sizes, averaging 17 students, ensuring personalized attention. Faculty members are dedicated to teaching and often involve undergraduates in their research.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$69,594
Avg starting salary$36,200
Job placement rate94%
Earn more than HS grad72%
Economic mobility74%
Loan default (3 yr)2%
Loan repayment (3 yr)82%

A Puget Sound education equips students with skills applicable across diverse fields, preparing them for success in their chosen careers. Graduates have found employment at prominent organizations like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, and many pursue prestigious fellowships. The university emphasizes experiential learning and interdisciplinary studies to enhance career readiness.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
1,631Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 57%Male 43%
67% WhiteRacial diversity
White 67%Hispanic 10%Asian 6%Black 3%Other 13%
Campus housingYes

Puget Sound offers a vibrant campus life with over 100 clubs and organizations, Greek life, and various social events. The university emphasizes community involvement and provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in service activities. With nearly 70% of students living on campus, there's a strong sense of community and a lively atmosphere.

Student reviews

Professors

Alumni

The "experiential learning" opportunities are great as the school provides grants for research/internships/etc. There are tons of resources available for students. It is a really expensive school, and because of that, a lot of students here come from similar backgrounds. In my experience everyone here has been very accepting, but it's very much a PWI. Overall I'm very happy to be a student here.

Alumni

Without a doubt THE BEST decision I ever made was to enroll at University of Puget Sound. I remember having several options from state schools to other private liberal arts colleges and while it may not have been the "cheapest" option on paper it was definitely the best decision both financially and academically. Having spoken with friends at state colleges, I know this was a smart decision.

Campus and vibes

Current Student

I’ve had a great time at UPS thus far. It’s a pretty small campus which allows you to make great connections with your professors and friends. Because of this I’ve also been given tons of leadership opportunities and hands on learning outside of the classroom. I think UPS does a great job of setting students up for success in the future. One thing that they are working on and needs change is the diversity on campus as it’s a predominant white institution with only small pockets of diversity.

Current Student

To keep it short, if I had to describe my experience at Puget Sound in one word, it would be community. Anytime I'm out walking, I always see groups of people either playing spike ball, sitting outside the SUB hanging out, doing school work in Todd Field, or just doing something. I was able to get involved with research and teacher assisting, both activities which helped me establish an identity on campus for myself.

About University of Puget Sound

The University of Puget Sound is dedicated to maintaining a safe campus environment, with crime rates showing a downward trend over the past decade. The university implements various security measures and awareness campaigns to ensure student safety. While recent data indicates a slight uptick in crime rates, the university remains vigilant in its efforts to foster a secure campus.

The Honors Program at Puget Sound offers a vibrant intellectual community with collaborative learning and exciting events. Starting with the class of 2023, the program includes a residential component, an interdisciplinary minor in "Consciousness, Creativity, and Meaning," and an individual thesis. The program aims to build academic and personal relationships through shared experiences.

While specific details on international student support are limited, the University of Puget Sound welcomes students from around the globe. The university offers study abroad programs in over 40 countries, fostering a global perspective among its students. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment, contributing to a diverse campus community.

Endowment$448,621,000
Avg faculty salary$137,676

University of Puget Sound FAQ

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